Inquiry Finds British Committed Genocide Against Indigenous Australians: Reactions and Scrutiny
The Yoorrook Justice Commission, Australia’s first formal “truth-telling” inquiry, concluded that the British committed genocide against Indigenous Australians, leading to a drastic population decline in the early 1830s. The commission’s comprehensive report, which stemmed from years of testimony, detailed systemic injustices including mass killings, disease, and cultural erasure, resulting in 100 recommendations for “redress.” While the report’s findings were strongly supported by some, three of the five commissioners disagreed with key findings. Victoria’s Labor government responded by stating they would carefully consider the report, while community leaders continue to seek reconciliation through acknowledging the past.
John Q. Hosedrinker